Deadly Train Collision in Spain: Death Toll Rises to 41
In a tragic railway accident, two high-speed trains derailed and collided near Adamuz in the province of Cordoba, southern Spain, leaving at least 41 dead and over 150 injured. The catastrophe is the deadliest train accident in Spain since 2013.
Background
The deadly collision occurred on Sunday evening between Málaga and Madrid. One of the high-speed trains, operated by rail company Iryo, was traveling from Malaga to Madrid when it derailed and crashed onto an adjacent track. This initial derailment led to the derailment and subsequent collision of a second train, traveling from Madrid to Huelva. Around 300 people were onboard the derailed Iryo train. The accident happened on a straight part of the completely renovated track, according to Transport Minister Oscar Puente.
Key Developments
The death toll from the crash has been rising steadily, with reports varying between 39 to 41 fatalities as rescue operations continue. Initial reports from the Spanish Ministry of the Interior indicated 39 deaths and 123 injuries. However, more recent reports from TASS and the South China Morning Post suggest that the death toll has risen to 41.
Rescue efforts are ongoing and authorities anticipate discovering more bodies as overturned wagons are cleared. Authorities have deployed mobile intensive care units to the crash site, and many of the injured have been rushed to hospital. Among the deceased is one of the train drivers.
Reactions and Implications
The accident has prompted widespread concern and mourning across Spain. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia expressed their concern about the disaster, while President Pedro Sanchez cancelled his Monday agenda to visit the accident site. In his visit to Adamuz, Sanchez declared three days of national mourning and vowed to conduct a full investigation into the causes of the accident, stating it was a day of pain for the entire country.
Survivors described the scene as absolutely terrifying,
according to BBC News. The victims of the crash included a range of individuals, from a police officer to journalists and a family returning from a musical, the New York Times reported.
Current Status
Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the derailment. The Spanish Ministry of the Interior has issued a preliminary report and further information is expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. As Spain mourns the loss of at least 41 lives in this tragic incident, the nation awaits answers and hopes for the swift recovery of those injured.